Since long before the invention of Viagra in the 1990s, people have been trying to find a solution for erectile dysfunction (ED). Natural aphrodisiacs have traditionally been used to stimulate libido, potency, or sexual pleasure. The popularity of these natural therapies stems in part from their alleged lack of adverse effects when compared to pharmaceuticals.
Certain herbs, according to the research, have various degrees of success in treating erectile dysfunction. These are some of the herbs:
- Panax ginseng
- Maca
- Yohimbine
Read on to discover what studies say about these herbs and how they might treat ED.
Table of Contents
What causes erectile dysfunction?
ED is often a symptom, not a condition. An erection is a result of complex multi-system processes in a man’s body. Sexual arousal involves interaction between your:
- body
- nervous system
- muscles
- hormones
- emotions
ED alternative therapies
The sexual potency of herbal supplements and health foods is often touted, cheaper than prescription drugs.
But there’s little scientific evidence to back up these claims, and no standard way to verify their efficacy. Human testing results are mostly subjective and difficult to understand. Many supplements are known to negatively interact with alcohol.
Chinese and Korean ginseng
Panax ginseng has been used for 2,000 years in Chinese and Korean medicine as a health tonic. This ginseng, commonly known as Korean red ginseng, is used to treat ED and to:
- stamina
- concentration
- stress
- overall well-being
It may also improve:
- penile rigidity
- girth
- duration of erection
- improved libido
- overall satisfaction
Nitric oxide (NO) is a powerful antioxidant found in ginseng, which helps erectile functioning. Premature ejaculation is treated with ginseng cream. This herb is regarded harmless, but should only be used briefly (6 to 8 weeks). Anxiety is a typical adverse effect. Some drugs and alcohol can interact with ginseng.
Maca, a Peruvian root
Maca is a great supplement to your diet for overall wellness. Maca (Lepidium meyenii) contains:
- amino acids
- iodine
- iron
- magnesium
Maca extract improved sexual performance in rats in studies. But the Peruvian root’s ability to directly boost erectile function is unknown. This root’s impact may be placebo. Researchers discovered maca has no impact on hormone levels.
In a research, a guy who took 3g maca per day for 8 weeks reported more sexual desire than men who did not. While maca is typically harmless, taking 0.6 grams of maca per day raised blood pressure in those with heart issues.
Yohimbine bark, West African
Yohimbine is a West African evergreen tree bark. Yohimbine is used to treat ED because it:
- activate the penile nerves to release more NO
- widen the blood vessels to increase blood flow in the penis
- stimulate the pelvic nerve and boost adrenaline supply
- increase sexual desire
- prolong erections
In one trial, 14% of males treated with yohimbine had full-stimulated erections, 20% had some reaction, and 65% had no change.
Another study found that after therapy, 16 out of 29 males could orgasm and ejaculate. The combination of yohimbine and L-arginine improves erectile function in ED patients. L-arginine expands blood vessels. It’s considered safe and helpful for ED, but might produce nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Incompatible with Viagra, nitrates or other blood pressure drugs.
While testing have been positive, yohimbine’s adrenaline effects can cause:
- headaches
- sweating
- agitation
- hypertension
- insomnia
Other herbs reported to treat ED
These herbs have shown a pro-erectile effect in animals like rabbits and rats:
- horny goat weed, or epimedium
- musli, or Chlorophytum borivilianum
- saffron, or Crocus sativus
- Tribulus terrestris
- Mondia whitei
Risks and side effects
The FDA has not approved any of these herbs as a medicinal therapy. Many herbs are polluted from other countries. Not as well-studied and tested as prescription drugs like Viagra.
The FDA also warned men against buying “herbal Viagra” pills and lotions. In addition to prescription drugs, herbal Viagra may contain dangerous substances that cause significant negative effects.
Recommended ED treatments
ED is mostly treated by medication and lifestyle changes.
ED Medication:
One of the proven and effective means of treating ED is by taking Kamagra Pill, a generic version of the well-known erection-inducing Viagra by Pfizer. Kamagra is successful and widely accepted male impotence medication. It helps in obtaining erections within the time frame (4-6 hours).
Kamagra works by dilating the blood vessels in the mans body — mostly around the genital area. The stronger blood flow to penis enablesrequired erection. Sildenafil Citrate active compound representone of the standard treatments for erectile dysfunction.
Since Kamagra is less expensive and more effective than Viagra, it presents the best way out for ED patients. Kamagra is fairly available and can be purchased online and shipped down to your doorstep with ease.
Lifestyle treatments include:
- sexual anxiety counseling
- psychological counseling
- maintaining a moderate weight
- reducing tobacco and alcohol use
- acupuncture
When to see a doctor about ED
In case you have any other symptoms or your ED is harming your quality of life, make a medical exam appointment. During your visit, make sure to mention any supplements you’d like to take.
Don’t forget to tell your doctor about any ED symptoms you’re having. They can help your doctor determine the proper treatment, especially if your ED is caused by anything else. If so, you may not require herbal supplements. Always talk to your doctor before taking supplements as they may interact with other medications.